
Nissan is preparing to unveil a practical addition to its electric vehicles. The Japanese automaker has developed a retractable roof equipped with solar cells, designed to increase vehicle range.
The prototype, mounted on the Sakura, Japan's most popular electric compact sedan, will officially debut at the Japan Mobility Show in late October.
The AO-Solar Extender system is mounted on the vehicle's roof and can be opened to increase the area of the solar panel. When open, it generates up to 500 watts of power, while closed, it generates 300 watts.
Even in rainy weather, the AO-Solar Extender can generate up to 80 watts of electricity. Nissan engineers estimate that the roof's power is enough to provide the vehicle with up to 3,000 kilometers of additional range per year.
The system can charge the battery both while parked and while driving. Previously, similar solutions have only been available as concepts or DIY retrofits, but Nissan plans to bring the AO-Solar Extender to the mass market.